What is the primary function of SQL in data analytics?

The primary function of SQL (Structured Query Language) in data analytics is to manage and manipulate relational databases. SQL provides a standardized way to interact with and manage data stored in relational databases, which are structured into tables with defined relationships. Through SQL, users can perform various operations, such as querying data to extract specific information, updating records, inserting new data, and deleting existing entries. This capability is fundamental for data analysts, as they often need to retrieve and prepare data before conducting further analyses or creating visualizations.

While creating visualizations and performing statistical analysis involve data handling, these tasks typically occur after the data has been extracted and manipulated using SQL. Additionally, transferring data between formats is usually managed by other tools or processes rather than SQL itself. Therefore, the focus of SQL remains primarily on the management and manipulation of relational databases, making it an essential skill for anyone working in data analytics.